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Cyber attack on Ariz. stores leads to international investigation

Kimberly Matas Arizona Daily Star

Feb 6, 2013

Pinal County sheriff’s detectives are working with state law enforcement officials and the FBI on an investigation into a cyber attack on security systems in chain stores, including some in Arizona, has led to an international fraud investigation.

On Jan. 18, the sheriff’s office began receiving numerous reports of fraudulent credit and debit card transactions, Tim Gaffney, spokesman for the sheriff’s office, said. In less than two weeks Pinal investigators received more than 400 reports of fraud.

Stores targeted are Bashas’ AJ’s Fine Foods and Food City.

A “highly sophisticated” piece of computer malware was used to attack store security dating back to June or July 2012, Gaffney said.

No incidents connected to the fraud have been reported in the Tucson area, Deputy Tom Peine, spokesman for the Pima County Sheriff’s Department said.

The investigation stretches across the country and to Italy, France, Canada and Mexico.

Security photos from one store that was attacked, shows three suspects. Check out the Star’s Wanted gallery to get a look at them.

Anyone who has information about fraudulent activity, or who knows the identity or the whereabouts of the three suspects should call 911, 88-CRIME or the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency phone number at 1-800-420-8689 or 520-866-5111.